SHINE, Which stands for Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders, is an award-winning, statewide volunteer based program that empowers people on Medicate and their caregivers to make informed decisions about their Medicate and other health insurance issues.

SHINE Volunteers, who undergo intensive training, provide individual counseling, education and assistance at SHINE sites, via telephone and over the Internet. SHINE volunteer are also availble to make group presentations on many Medicare-related topics.

Since the program began in 1993, SHINE volunteers have assisted more than 350,000 people.

How can SHINE Help?

Individual Counseling

• Medicare Eligibility, Enrollment and Coverage Issues

• Medicare Health Plan Choices

• Medicare Appeal Rights

• Medigap (Medicare Supplemental) Policies

• Long-term Care Insurance

• Prescription Assistance Resources

SHINE counseling services are provided free of charge by volunteers who uphold client confidentiality and provide information and unbiased advice.
Community Education & Outreach

• Group Presentations

• Senior Expos

• Health Fairs

• TV, Radio and Newspaper Interviews

• Who is Eligible for SHINE Services?

SHINE volunteers assist those currently on Medicare, those who will soon be eligible due to age disability or end, and those who act on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries, including family members and caregivers.